As the pros warm up on Race Day at the TD Bank Philadelphia International Cycling Championship, amateur and recreational cyclists plus families and friends can have their shot at the very race course the pros will attack.  The race’s Wellness Challenge gives riders, ages 12 and up, the chance to test themselves on the 14.4-mile loop, including Kelly Drive, the grueling Manayunk Wall and Lemon Hill, while experiencing the rush of riding on fully closed streets with thousands of spectators lining up curbside to cheer on the racers.

“Whether you’re a serious rider or someone who’s just always wondered what the Manayunk Wall is really like on a bike, the Wellness Challenge is your chance to experience this epic, world class professional race course as have top champions like Heiden, Armstrong, Hincapie and so many other great cyclists over the years,” said David Chauner, president of Pro Cycling Tour, organizers of the TD Bank bike race.

The Wellness Challenge starts promptly at 7:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 5, 2011. The roads remain open for the ride until 8:45am when all streets will be cleared for the start of the pro race. The advance registration fee for the Wellness Challenge is $45 per rider, and ages 12 and up and all ability levels are invited. Helmets are mandatory. Register in advance by CLICKING HERE or day-of at the main staging area at Kelly Drive and Sedgely just below the Art Museum, at 6 a.m. The day-of registration fee is $55, space permitting. All entrants will receive an official Wellness Challenge t-shirt and be treated to post-ride refreshments.

When you sign up for the Wellness Challenge, don’t forget to also purchase VIP tickets for Champions Row, for a front row seat for all of the day’s racing action.  Champions Row VIPs have access to exclusive, fully-catered hospitality tents at the Start/Finish line on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.  The VIP ticket also gives you the chance to win one of 10 rides in an official Acura Pace Car. VIP tickets are $95 per ticket for up to three tickets, $90 per ticket for 4-7 tickets, $85 for 8 or more and be purchased. CLICK HERE for more information.

Take the Wellness Challenge! REGISTER TODAY!